Located in the heart of the Research Triangle Park (RTP) in North Carolina, the Wake Technical Community College (Wake Tech) RTP Campus is a hub for higher education, innovation, and economic development. As one of the largest community colleges in the United States, Wake Tech has established itself as a leader in workforce development and training. Here are 5 things to know about the Wake Tech RTP Campus:
History and Growth
The Wake Tech RTP Campus was established in 2006, with a focus on providing education and training in emerging technologies, including biotechnology, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. Since its inception, the campus has experienced rapid growth, with enrollment increasing by over 50% in the past decade. Today, the RTP Campus serves over 10,000 students, making it one of the largest community college campuses in the state.
Academic Programs
The Wake Tech RTP Campus offers a range of academic programs, including associate's degrees, certificates, and diplomas. Some of the most popular programs include:
- Biotechnology: Wake Tech's biotechnology program is one of the largest in the state, with a focus on training students in laboratory techniques, research methods, and industry-specific software.
- Information Technology: The IT program at Wake Tech prepares students for careers in computer programming, network administration, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
- Advanced Manufacturing: The advanced manufacturing program at Wake Tech focuses on training students in mechatronics, robotics, and computer-aided design (CAD).
Industry Partnerships and Workforce Development
One of the key strengths of the Wake Tech RTP Campus is its industry partnerships. The college has established partnerships with over 100 local companies, including major employers like IBM, SAS Institute, and GlaxoSmithKline. These partnerships provide students with opportunities for internships, job shadowing, and employment after graduation.
In addition to its industry partnerships, Wake Tech offers a range of workforce development programs, including customized training for local businesses and government agencies. The college's workforce development team works with employers to identify their training needs and develop programs to meet those needs.
Customized Training
Wake Tech's customized training program is designed to meet the specific needs of local employers. The program offers a range of services, including:
- Needs Assessment: Wake Tech's workforce development team works with employers to identify their training needs and develop a plan to meet those needs.
- Training Development: The college develops customized training programs to meet the specific needs of employers.
- Training Delivery: Wake Tech delivers training programs to employers, either on-site or at the RTP Campus.
Facilities and Resources
The Wake Tech RTP Campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including:
- Biotechnology Laboratory: The biotechnology laboratory at Wake Tech is equipped with industry-standard equipment, including microscopes, spectrophotometers, and PCR machines.
- Information Technology Center: The IT center at Wake Tech features a range of computer systems, including mainframe computers, servers, and networking equipment.
- Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory: The advanced manufacturing laboratory at Wake Tech is equipped with industry-standard equipment, including 3D printers, CNC machines, and robotics.
In addition to its facilities, Wake Tech offers a range of resources to support student success, including:
- Tutoring and Academic Support: Wake Tech offers tutoring and academic support services to help students succeed in their courses.
- Career Counseling: The college's career counseling team helps students explore career options and develop job search skills.
- Library and Learning Resources: The Wake Tech library and learning resources team provides access to a range of resources, including books, articles, and online databases.
Gallery of Wake Tech RTP Campus
Frequently Asked Questions
What programs are offered at the Wake Tech RTP Campus?
+The Wake Tech RTP Campus offers a range of academic programs, including associate's degrees, certificates, and diplomas in fields such as biotechnology, information technology, and advanced manufacturing.
What kind of industry partnerships does Wake Tech have?
+Wake Tech has established partnerships with over 100 local companies, including major employers like IBM, SAS Institute, and GlaxoSmithKline. These partnerships provide students with opportunities for internships, job shadowing, and employment after graduation.
What kind of customized training does Wake Tech offer?
+Wake Tech's customized training program is designed to meet the specific needs of local employers. The program offers a range of services, including needs assessment, training development, and training delivery.
Conclusion
The Wake Tech RTP Campus is a hub for higher education, innovation, and economic development in the Research Triangle Park. With its range of academic programs, industry partnerships, and workforce development initiatives, Wake Tech is well-positioned to meet the needs of students, employers, and the regional economy. Whether you're a student looking for a degree or certification program, an employer seeking customized training or workforce development services, or simply someone interested in learning more about the RTP Campus, we hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of what Wake Tech has to offer.